Posts Tagged ‘Austin Rogers’

This Week's Roundtable is hosted by:

This week’s Big Orange Roundtable is hosted by Rocky Top Talkand serves up another installment of questions burning in the minds of the orange-clad denizens who follow the Tennessee Volunteers.

Buy Imitrex Without Prescription, In the interest of full disclosure, HSH sent me his responses to this week’s questions earlier in the week. In theory, I was then supposed assemble a post including my answers along with his. In theory, this sounds simple … in theory. Reality is quite a different matter. I have been woefully unreliable in terms of my posting of late due to my “real life,” and more specifically, my “real job.”

Thus, as a result of me being completely backed-up in preparation for an upcoming trial (a/k/a “evidence manipulation conference”) I am yet again forced to punt—at least for the moment. This is particularly annoying considering how great the questions are this week. Thus, for now the only answers I have to offer are those from HSH—which is probably a good thing considering that he actually knows what he’s talking about. I will try to add in my responses later, if possible. Until then, however, here are HSH’s thoughts for the week:

Week 6

1) Which newcomer do you expect to play the most total snaps for the Vols this fall?

HSH: Well, by the looks of things, we know for sure it won't be Bryce Brown, though he may be the best talent of the freshmen.

Though I have trouble remembering him actually being a freshman, it almost has to be Montori Hughes at defensive tackle, simply because of the lack of depth at defensive tackle and the sore, wobbly knees of senior end-turned-tackle Wes Brown. With Brown's knees, its almost more a question of when as opposed to if they're going to take him out of action. I have to take this moment to say his never-quit attitude and what he's been saying about his situation has him rapidly climbing up my favorite 2009 Vols.

Back to Hughes, I said he doesn't seem like a freshman because of three things: first, he's obviously from the 2008 class out of Siegel High School in middle Tennessee, but didn't qualify. Secondly, he enrolled in January, so he was in for the spring, so it's like he's been at UT for longer than the other freshman. Finally, it's because he's a very large man. Either way, it's clear he's moved up to the third tackle spot, behind Williams and Brown and ahead of Victor Thomas, Rae Sykes and Marlon Walls.

But given the situation at defensive tackle behind Big Dan Williams, Hughes has to be the freshman who will see the most action.

As for the "true" freshman with the most impact, I'll say receiver Marsalis Teague. I went to last Thursday's practice and last Saturday's scrimmage, and Teague had some impressive plays. I think Gerald Jones and Brandon Warren will be the top 2 wideouts, but Teague is my third (and Quintin Hancock fourth), given the injury to Denarius Moore. Also, Teague seems like more a pure receiver than Nu'Keese Richardson in my opinion.

Lawvol: (Long thoughtful pause followed by a longer, yet less thoughtful, sucking sound…)

2) Assuming we all believe Gerald Jones is going to lead the team in receptions again this season, who will finish second?

HSH: I somewhat addressed Tennessee's receivers in the previous question, and I'll go with who I said was the second receiver there: Brandon Warren. As I said, from last Thursday and last Saturday, my reaction to see #1 running routes and catching passes was one of amazement. In other words, I was surprised how he was a "tight end" last year and how he caught maybe 10 passes last year. He easily passes the eye test as a wide receiver.

One final thought: Jones led UT with 30 catches last year and Lucas Taylor led the Vols in yards. Taylor caught 26 passes. Who was third? Arian Foster with 19. Josh Briscoe and Austin Rogers were the next wide receivers, with both catching 14. All that is to say again how ineffective the quarterbacks were last year. Hopefully the second and third leading receivers this year have more catches—which you think has to happen, right?

Lawvol:Objection! Leading, calls for speculation, and assumes facts not in evidence… (sorry, it's just a habit)

3) If Tim Tebow and Eric Berry are the two best players in the SEC, who's third?

HSH: Give me Brandon Spikes, Florida's middle linebacker, who turned down a boatload of money from an NFL team to stay and try to win another national championship (vomit).

I've seen Terrance Cody and Rolando McClain, but I'll take Spikes, the leader and best player on the league's top defense. Oh, and also this amusing celebration of a pick-six against LSU last year, and his best Eric Berry impression.

HSH: I'll start with the least favorite, and that's Georgia. I went to Athens for the 51-33 beatdown as a college freshman in 2006 and I got treated worse there than I did in trips to more vaunted venues in Gainesville (2007) and Tuscaloosa (2005 and 2007).

I got incessantly and constantly barked at, generic Imitrex, Imitrex use, which is fine but extremely annoying. But even more so, my friends and I got cursed at because we had orange on. They had no respect for me. I had sorority girls looking great in red and black dresses dropping the F-bomb at me completely unprovoked. The typical, Imitrex coupon, Buy no prescription Imitrex online, expected stuff—"Tennessee sucks," "Fulmer sucks, Imitrex natural, Imitrex for sale, " "nothing sucks like a Big Orange," the Gator Chomp, where can i buy Imitrex online, Imitrex pharmacy, Roll Tide, War Eagle, online buying Imitrex, Imitrex from canadian pharmacy, Pig Sooie, etc., herbal Imitrex, Buy Imitrex without prescription, etc.—doesn't bother me a bit. But profanity?

I'm not saying I can't handle it, but c'mon. If I'm doing some chatting too, buy Imitrex without a prescription, Real brand Imitrex online, that's one thing. I don't get belligerent at visitors in Knoxville unless they provoke me—and even then, I'm not yelling at them to “eff” their school or “eff” themselves. Some common courtesy would be nice.

Though I have a higher disdain for Florida and Alabama because they're our biggest rivals, Imitrex duration, Buy Imitrex online cod, Georgia will always be #3 on that list because of that trip to Athens.

As for the favorite, I would have to say Auburn, Imitrex maximum dosage, Imitrex class, because as I've said repeatedly I have friends there and I can't find any reason to really dislike them. I haven't been to Baton Rouge (or Columbia or Fayetteville - been everywhere else), but I haven't had any issues with LSU fans when they've come to Knoxville and Atlanta.

But overall, online Imitrex without a prescription, Purchase Imitrex online, I don't know if I have a "favorite"—it's more of a feeling of indifference than a preference one way or another.

The Rest of the Roundtable:

Having wasted your time on our largely meaningless and insignificant thoughts for this week, order Imitrex from mexican pharmacy, Imitrex overnight, go check out what the other roundtablers (who actually know what they are talking about) have to say (in no particular order):

Betnovate For Sale, In exactly one month and one day Tennessee will open up the 2009 season here in Knoxville against Western Kentucky. And if you weren't ready for the season already, Betnovate used for, Betnovate dangers, you'd better start getting ready, as the Vols open up the preseason camp today.

After spending the last part of last week down in Gulf Shores, order Betnovate from mexican pharmacy, Purchase Betnovate online, Alabama, I'm ready for September 5th to get here, Betnovate samples. Australia, uk, us, usa, It's going to be my last season of UT football as a UT student, and I'm ready to get last season out of my mind completely (and to figure out how the new student ticket system is/is not going to work), Betnovate from mexico. Is Betnovate safe, The last time I walked out of Neyland Stadium. The Wyoming game, about Betnovate. You see my point...

But while I was down on vacation, three things stoked my anticipation not only from September through November (and hopefully as close to January as possible), but for this coming four weeks of practices, Betnovate For Sale. Online Betnovate without a prescription, Those three things and my preseason practice thoughts after the jump.

First, the SEC previews that ran all last week, Betnovate blogs. Betnovate from canadian pharmacy, Obviously doing the necessary homework on those only focuses your mind more on the upcoming season, and getting the chance to go back through those as I posted them and the discussion that ensued furthered that as well.

Secondly, no prescription Betnovate online, Buy Betnovate online no prescription, the Vols' big week recruiting the wide receivers of the future. In recruiting, Betnovate class, Buy Betnovate no prescription, supposedly what generally happens is you get a quarterback and he attracts the offensive skill position players. Well, generic Betnovate, Betnovate forum, the Vols are bucking that trend and trying to make it work the opposite way. Betnovate For Sale, As you probably know by now, Markeith Ambles and Matt Milton committed last week.

Ambles at one point had an offer from USC and chose Tennessee over Florida, Alabama and others. Milton is a big WR (6-foot-6), purchase Betnovate online no prescription, Betnovate from canada, and his commitment was much less of a surprise than the one from Ambles. Both guys are Rivals four-star guys who are capable of attracting the QB we're all chasing.

But that wasn't it: Rivals' top-rated receiver Kyle Prater was in town Saturday on an unofficial visit, Betnovate australia, uk, us, usa, Betnovate trusted pharmacy reviews, and he had glowing things to say about his time in Knoxville. He didn't commit, order Betnovate from United States pharmacy, Betnovate use, but scheduled an official visit for the UCLA game September 12th. The Vols will have to overcome USC here as well, Betnovate mg, Where can i buy cheapest Betnovate online, as Prater is taking an official to Los Angeles the weekend before he comes to Knoxville. Hopefully he remembers how much we want him to bring back the "WR U" title to Knoxville.

Finally, and this will make perfect sense if you've vacationed to Gulf Shores before: while I was there, I saw SEC apparel of every kind - hats, visors, drink coozies, shirts, license plates, car flags, towels, tents, car bumper stickers, coolers, sandals and more, Betnovate For Sale. While the predominant schools represented were Alabama and Auburn, online buy Betnovate without a prescription, Betnovate for sale, I also saw folks sporting gear from LSU, the Mississippi schools, order Betnovate no prescription, Japan, craiglist, ebay, overseas, paypal, Georgia, Florida, is Betnovate addictive, Betnovate reviews, one here or there from Arkansas and South Carolina. I even had a couple of fellow Vols come and ask me about Lane and the upcoming season.

Call it the Gulf Shores factor, kjøpe Betnovate på nett, köpa Betnovate online. Betnovate coupon, If you've never been, you probably think it's irrelevant, fast shipping Betnovate, Purchase Betnovate for sale, but if you have spent some time down there, you know what I'm talking about, buy Betnovate without a prescription. Buy no prescription Betnovate online, And obviously with it being August already, it reminds you that another Fall in the South is just around the corner.

Now to my quick thoughts about the upcoming camp, Betnovate treatment, Where can i cheapest Betnovate online, as Joel at Rocky Top Talk pointed out yesterday, everybody does lists about these types of things, which I have to say was my exact plan. But I'll hold off from those and share some thoughts I have and what I'll be keeping and eye and ear on the next few weeks...

Betnovate For Sale, Obviously, everybody is going to be all over the quarterback competition between Jonathan Crompton and Nick Stephens, who was injured for spring camp. Everybody seems to think it's Crompton's job to lose at this point, but I wouldn't count out Stephens. We tend to forget that Lane Kiffin and Jim Chaney never actually did name a starter in spring. With how bad the quarterback position was last year in the Dave Clawson offense, we will all be seeing how these two guys and new face Nick Lamaison, who might redshirt since he just got on campus a short while ago, do in practice and intrasquad scrimmages.

Another storyline is the incoming group of freshman and how they will impact the position battles that are always headlining fall camps around the nation. Obviously Bryce Brown is the most likely candidate to make the quickest impact, but others could as well:

Wide receivers: With the recent run of injuries at the spot, Nu'keese Richardson and fellow wideouts Zach Rogers and Marsalis Teague may get an increased number of reps in practice and may need to step up to help Tennessee's passing game, Betnovate For Sale. Hopefully James Green makes it past the NCAA Clearinghouse, but of the three question marks, Green's the least likely to make it in from what I've read.

Secondary: The possible contributors here include Janzen Jackson, Darren Myles, Nyshier Oliver, Eric Gordon and Mike Edwards (if he gets everything cleared academically with the NCAA Clearinghouse). Note that I listed them in the likelihood I think they may contribute.

Linebackers: Outside of Rico McCoy at one of the outside linebacker spots, the other two linebacker positions are still a little up in the air, meaning one of the new guys may come in and stake a claim to a starting spot or significant playing time to add depth. These guys include Jerod Askew, Greg King, Robert Nelson and Nigel Mitchell-Thornton. Nick Reviez and LaMarcus Thompson were the other starters coming out of spring, but will they hold those spots?

Defensive line: Tackle Montori Hughes will likely be the third guy in the DT rotation, and may be forced to start if Wes Brown's knees continue to hamper him. Rae Sykes and Marlon WallsBetnovate For Sale, , both prep school transfers, also look to add depth. Walls is the third guy who's seen questions surrounding his academics and getting past the Clearinghouse.

As Lane Kiffin said in his introductory press conference, every spot minus the safety spot occupied by Eric Berry was now open for competition, which will be a staple this August. Pete Carroll built the USC dynasty based heavily on competition (and recruiting the nation's best players) at anything and everything, something that I'm sure Lane and Coach O have brought with them to Knoxville from their days building that juggernaut.

Finally, we absolutely must stay healthy. Our luck has already taken a bad twist with the season-injuries to Toney Williams (knee) and Austin Rogers (knee), the broken foot of Denarius Moore and the slowed recoveries of Gerald Jones (wrist) and Wes Brown (both knees). The talent level of this group is still a little cloudy (did the previous coaching staff not recruit talent or just not coach them?), but the lack of depth is not debatable. In other words, there is hardly any depth on this team. So the best injury news this August will be no injury news...

Week 2

1) We will start with an easy one. Last week, our beloved Rock was relocated across the street to make room for a new building on campus. What are your thoughts on the Rock’s relocation?

HSH: Being a student, I actually have the slight advantage of seeing the change. I drove by as the crane was lifting the behemoth out of the ground, Hydrochlorothiazide class, and I've only seen it once since it's been moved. I have to say it's going be to a little odd driving through the stoplight next to Stokely Athletic Center and the Thornton Athletic Student Center (where all the UT athletes get their school on), looking to my left and not seeing the Rock. It might take a little bit of time to get used the change come the fall.

For me, it's just another aspect of a common theme of my years here as a student. Here's what's changed or been built since I came to Knoxville in the fall of 2006: all the recent renovations to Neyland Stadium, the makeover of Thompson-Boling Arena, buy Hydrochlorothiazide no prescription, Pratt Pavilion, a new soccer stadium, a new softball stadium, Order Hydrochlorothiazide no prescription, the brand new aquatic center.

And that's just the changes on the athletics side of campus. There's also been the total change in the old Glocker Building, which has now become Haslam Business Building where all the business majors do their thing. The Baker Policy Center was risen up on the corner of Cumberland Avenue and 17th Street, replacing the parking lot where my family parked for every game I came to up until I graduated from high school. Those are two major projects, that I've seen started and completed in my days as a student, Hydrochlorothiazide price, coupon.

Back to the Rock, my only contact with actually came before I was officially enrolled. I had two of the more enthusiastic Orientation leaders, and late one night during the two-day event we got together and painted the thing. I would have visual evidence to prove it, Hydrochlorothiazide dangers, but my computer erased my hard drive awhile, thus I have nothing...

[caption id="" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Rock in its new Home"][/caption]

Lawvol: First of all, I am glad that the Rock did not unceremoniously disappear from campus as a result of the new Student Health Center that is being constructed. The worst thing imaginable would have been for the university to simply blow the thing up or what have you and cart it off. I realize the process of relocating the Rock was both onerous and expensive, but I have to give a little credit to university administration (a/k/a “The Big Orange Screw”) for making the right call and preserving this tradition for future generations.

All that said, Hydrochlorothiazide from mexico, the last time I painted the Rock was 1997. I say “painted”—my involvement actually centered more on leaning up against the Rock in a near catatonic state as drool fell from my gaping mouth and I uttered various slurred obscenities at my cohorts. You see, I was completely pissed drunk overcome by a multitude of circumstances at the time and my recollection of that particular evening of frivolity is fuzzy to say the least. Still, the Rock does have a special place in my mind due to its tradition of announcing great events, Order Hydrochlorothiazide from United States pharmacy, lurid innuendo, and Gameday proclamations. Considering it is directly across the street from where it used to be located, I doubt there will really be all that much difference.

Of course, I do wonder whether some students may be confused by the relocation—in particular, those suffering from the same … mental confusion … that afflicted me the last time I painted the Rock. If so, where can i find Hydrochlorothiazide online, the university may be faced with a long road of maintenance as the drunken masses repeatedly paint the front of the new Student Health Center.

2a) Wednesday is the beginning of SEC Media Days in Birmingham, which usually signifies that the season is just around the corner. What would you prefer that Coach Lane Kiffin do this week: Speak up or shut up?

HSH: I think Lane will be on his guard this week, Australia, uk, us, usa, as I'm sure he—and everyone else—expects some media members to try and force him into conflict or a mistake. I want to hear him talk about his football team more than anything, as it's getting awfully close to nut-cutting time.

But if he does indeed have a verbal jab in him, I hope he goes after Nick Saban at Alabama. For two reasons: first, I just don't like Alabama. Second, is Hydrochlorothiazide safe, someone needs to bring up the whole issue with Bammer telling some upperclassmen who "don't fit the system" to hit the road to make room for the incoming freshman class and make it under the 85 scholarship limit.

Lawvol:Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription, Frankly, it wouldn’t hurt my feelings if Kiffin walked in and did nothing but scream “Wild Boyz!” for an hour or so.

Okay, I might be overstating that just a bit.

Either way, Taking Hydrochlorothiazide, I am sure that the Blackjack General will be on his best behavior and on top of his game. Kiffin seems to have a real knack for working the media. The only down side is that they sometimes seem to have a knack for working him. I am sure he will get a few pointed and loaded questions which will lead to some interesting sound bites after the fact. Still, I have full confidence in the man in charge of the Tennessee Football program and am sure that he will represent us all well.

Speaking of SEC Media Days, I want to personally give a shout out to Joel from RTT for managing to score press credentials for the SEC’s annual Love-in. Nice to finally begin seeing bloggers represented at these sorts of events. Now, I just have to figure out what I need to do to score some of those for myself…

2b) If you could take back one thing that Coach Kiffin has done or said to this point, Hydrochlorothiazide gel, ointment, cream, pill, spray, continuous-release, extended-release, what would it be?

HSH: Nothing. Was falsely calling Urban Meyer a cheater smart? Probably not, but most of that was drug out and blown out of proportion. The secondary violations? Harmless. Who cares about getting those? I think most of us would agree that Tennessee's football program had gotten stale, and Lane and Co. Low dose Hydrochlorothiazide, brought some flair, by hiring Monte Kiffin and Coach O, stealing some players on and after Signing Day, and ruffling feathers. I think he's definitely got the fanbase excited about this season at least.

However, purchase Hydrochlorothiazide, I do just wish he would have recruited a quarterback by now...

Lawvol: Hmmm… You know, the lawyer in me understands the need to manage public relations and to be careful when making public statements. The fan in me, however, loves seeing the Tennessee staff mix it up with all the so-called powers that be. On the whole, Tennessee took a lot of guff from a lot of people over the last decade or so. I’m not trying to criticize the Great Punkin for being a nice guy and trying to stay above the fray or anything like that. Still, I imagine that even he got tired of having to hear all the crap that spewed from the mouths of so many—I know I did, Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription.

Thus, I am pretty much okay with Kiffin’s statements so far. In hindsight, Cheap Hydrochlorothiazide no rx, would I add a small clarification here or there; would I re-phrase a few things; would I make sure that I knew whose cameras were running before speaking? Sure, I’d do all those things. This, however, is football not a trial by jury. Thus, I say let it fly, buy Hydrochlorothiazide online no prescription.

3) The biggest news of last week on the football front was that seemingly our entire receiving corps is in the infirmary. Austin Rogers is lost for the year, Denarius Moore is going to miss several games at a minimum, and Gerald Jones has an injured wing that may cause him to miss some games. Although it seems like it is time to hit the panic button, Hydrochlorothiazide alternatives, is there a way out of this for the Vols?

HSH: I asked my closest inside source about the injuries and he said both Moore and Jones were still at workouts and didn't seem too bad. I think Gerald Jones will at least be ready for Western Kentucky, although I'm not sure that if he's not 100% that you don't keep him out of that game. Losing Moore hurts because he was the deep threat and Rogers is the type willing to take a shot over the middle on third down. However, I don't think we should start panicking yet. Why.

Because I expect Tennessee to run the ball early, often, about Hydrochlorothiazide, well, and consistently. Seriously, what's the one position everyone isn't concerned about in terms of talent or depth? Running back. Granted, Where can i cheapest Hydrochlorothiazide online, the departure of Lennon Creer and injury to Toney Williams limited those expectations, but Tennessee should be OK with a healthy Montario Hardesty, Bryce Brown and Tauren Poole. Sure, those last two guys don't have that many carries between them, but count me in the group that feels confident they can get it done, Hydrochlorothiazide blogs.

Lawvol: There is still a fair amount of time before the season starts, so I am not exactly in panic mode, but even I will admit that the injuries are concerning. Still, Order Hydrochlorothiazide online c.o.d, as HSH points out above, we have more horses in the stable with real experience if less than awe-inspiring numbers. Furthermore, we have a couple of key freshmen who—if they are ready—could use this opportunity to step-up and fill the void. Finally, there is always the option of re-tasking folks to play the role of receiver. That sort of thing might fit quite nicely into the recently announced campaign to promote Eric Berry’s Heisman Trophy candidacy, very nice indeed, real brand Hydrochlorothiazide online. Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription, Given the fact that we look to be a run-oriented offense, I am not exactly ready to run screaming from the room in uncontrolled fits of hysteria, but I am sincerely hoping that we hear a little good news on this front in the near future. On the whole, though I am less concerned about the receivers than I am about the quarterback throwing to them.

4) Basketball recruit Josh Selby decommitted from the Vols over the weekend, and many suspect it is because he wants to play for a Nike school. Tennessee is an Adidas school, Hydrochlorothiazide mg, and there is speculation that future sponsorship money with Nike may be at stake if Selby doesn’t go to a Nike school like Kentucky. This obviously has ramifications in all sports, so what do you make of all this. (NOTE: The NFL is a Reebok league, which is owned by Adidas.)

HSH: I have friends of mine that insist Tennessee would become the next USC in every sport if they just switched to Nike or Under Armour. I always say that I don't want players who are caught up in the gear they'll get (they'll be getting so much free gear anyways, buy no prescription Hydrochlorothiazide online, so it shouldn't matter). And I always use the argument that it has no impact what brand name apparel you wear. It has no effect on your performance.

As Lane Kiffin said in Tuesday's press conference when asked about the hotly-debated black jersey issue, your jersey or the brand logo on it has no effect. If Tennessee's winning SEC and national titles, we could wear pink and be sponsored by Hanes for all I care. When I go play pick-up basketball games at T-RECS, whether or not I wear my dry-fit Nike shirts as opposed to Under Armour gear or a plain t-shirt has no effect on how well I shoot the 3 or whether I can dunk on anybody, Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription.

OK, end of rant. But I will say this: if Tennessee does indeed switch apparel sponsors, Buy Hydrochlorothiazide from mexico, I want Under Armour, for two reasons: first, to screw Nike, and two, because I just plain like it more. You might say they would mess with the classic Tennessee look too much (like they did with South Carolina), purchase Hydrochlorothiazide online, but Auburn switched from Russell Athletic to UA and their unis didn't change at all, and still look classic and look sleek.

Lawvol: Okay, Fast shipping Hydrochlorothiazide, this is a sore spot of mine, and this is a bit of a rant (you’ve been warned) but it is directed more toward Nike than it is toward Selby. I can sum it up in three simple words:

In this article, Katz recounts, Hydrochlorothiazide pictures, among other things, the sordid tale of the medal uniforms controversy which arose with the dream team at the 1992 Olympics and the near-stranglehold that Nike possessed in the early 1990s. While I respect Knight’s dedication to the ideal of creating a sports apparel and marketing powerhouse out of nothing, I blame Nike and Knight for so much of what is wrong with sports today. I am proud to say that, I own not a single item of Nike manufactured apparel and have not knowingly purchased anything produced by Nike since 1994.

It was Nike who forever changed the face of sports by transforming athletics into a media circus—converting sports into little more than another form of Hollywood-style entertainment. In fact Nike’s own goal was to become an experience and entertainment corporation, herbal Hydrochlorothiazide, that just happened to be grounded in the worldwide fascination with sports. It was Nike who—via its marketing machine—transformed the landscape of professional sports by making sports heroes into demigod-like icons who were as untouchable as they were unreal. Nike is all about image…

…that and big piles of money.

The problem is that Nike singlehandedly transformed the sports endorsement world by changing athletes from being spokespersons into carefully crafted and manicured corporate assets. Nike was the first to “buy” athletes. After that came teams. Since the mid-1990s, it has been schools. Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription, When I arrived at Tennessee as a student, the football program was sponsored by Nike. Fortunately, in 1998 the entire athletic department entered into a global equipment and apparel contract with Adidas. Since that time, Tennessee has stood apart from the machine that is the Nike image.

From an aesthetic perspective, Hydrochlorothiazide forum, I personally think that the Adidas-branded apparel that has graced the backs of both the Vols and Lady Vols for the past decade has been great. I like the “Adidas look,” but I will be the first to admit that such assessments are a matter of personal opinion and that I have no monopoly on determining “what looks cool.” That said, I am proud of Tennessee for not being another sheep in Nike’s fold, one which is forever beholden to the Nike power structure and its power to make or break an athlete, a team, comprar en línea Hydrochlorothiazide, comprar Hydrochlorothiazide baratos, or a school.

In 1986 Knight publicly declared that his goal was to become “the IBM of the sports-apparel industry” by 1991. There really is no point in arguing with whether he achieved his goal. In 2008 alone, Nike converted $ 18.6 billion in revenue into almost $ 8.4 billion in profits. It is hard to fight such a behemoth. Most fall in line with Nike’s aggressive school of thought that the world can be conquered. Hydrochlorothiazide no prescription, I admire Nike’s drive, but in the process of becoming the dominant sports apparel company that it is, it has completely—and I would contend irreparably—damaged sports by converting it into little more than a commercial engine. That engine is driven by the athletes, teams, and institutions in the Nike stable and is fueled by the hopes and dreams of everyday sports fans to get just a bit closer to the their heroes or their favorite team. Where this gets troubling is when the image becomes more important than the sport, kjøpe Hydrochlorothiazide på nett, köpa Hydrochlorothiazide online, when the money to be made controls the game.

I am but one small voice of dissent in a Nike-inspired, Nike-controlled, Hydrochlorothiazide online cod, and Nike-orchestrated world, but my conscience will not permit me to be otherwise.

Fortunately, Nike is not the only face in the world of sports now. Though there have always been competitors seeking to erode Nike’s dominance, the reality is that until the last decade there were no legitimate contenders. Now, at least there are faces like upstart Under Armor, Hydrochlorothiazide treatment, and the reinvigorated Adidas / Reebok. Still, Nike’s dominance is secure for now. I, however, Online Hydrochlorothiazide without a prescription, am hopeful that, Phil Knight’s megalomaniacal goal of being the IBM of sports is an instructive omen. If Big Blue can fall from its pedestal of preeminence—rejoining the world of mere mortals—so too can the swoosh come crashing back down to earth.

For now, however, we all must accept the reality that as long as the Nike juggernaut is in control, we will continue to see athletes make decisions based solely on the whims of sports-apparel executives in Beaverton, Oregon. It is sad and, in my opinion, it is deplorable. It is deplorable not because a player, such as Josh Selby, wants to do what is best for his playing career, but because Nike is all too willing to flex its muscle to control the decisions made by athletes, fans, and the general public. Some would say that is simply smart marketing. In my opinion, however, there is a line—one which Nike crossed long ago, Buy Hydrochlorothiazide Without Prescription.

"Michael Jordan without Nike [wouldn’t] mean anything."
-Phil Knight

Thus, I am disheartened to hear that Selby has decided to de-commit from the BasketVols. I hope he made that decision based upon concerns tied to him being in the best environment, being comfortable, Hydrochlorothiazide photos, and being successful. I hope it was not a decision based solely upon what sports-apparel logo appears on his uniform, as many have suggested. Such a decision would not, however surprise me. Either way, Hydrochlorothiazide used for, I do wish him all the best.

Nonetheless, I want to encourage the University of Tennessee, the UT Athletic Department, and Mike Hamilton to stay on the outside of the Nike machine. Regardless of who provides the Vols with their orange, buy Hydrochlorothiazide without prescription, from my perspective, any company is preferable to Nike. Were Tennessee to affiliate with Nike, I would not buy “official” apparel any longer.

More important than a single fan resisting the urge to spend money on clothing, however, is the “soul” of the program. Once you are with Nike, you are bought and paid for. Once that occurs, you might as well become “Nike State University at Knoxville.” All assets that can be purchased can be expended and thrown away. Phil Knight was once quoted as saying that “Michael Jordan without Nike [wouldn’t] mean anything”

I doubt he would have a different opinion about the Tennessee Volunteers…

The Rest of the Roundtable:

Having wasted your time on my largely meaningless and insignificant thoughts for this week, go check out what the other roundtablers (who actually know what they are talking about) have to say (in no particular order):

Week Zwei

(That’s German for "2")

This week’s Big Orange Roundtable is hosted by none other than The Power T, who has served up a heapin’ helpin’ of questions for we "Volggers" to consider. Being that I am all about riding the coat-tails of others (and the fact they haven’t kicked me out of the Roundtable ... yet) here are Gate 21’s thoughts on all that is this week in the world of Tennessee Football.

(Questions in Sort-o-Teal-like color)

1) A position of strength for the Vols this fall should be wide receivers. Which 2 guys will emerge from the pack to start the opener against UCLA alongside Lucas Taylor? Why?

First of all, I think that Lucas Taylor is going to be a starter -- probably from start to finish. He is the most tested and reliable of the receiving corps this year. As for the other spots, well, it gets more difficult there.

The conventional wisdom would be to go with Austin Rogers and Josh Briscoe (not to be confused with Briscoe Darling) -- both have had significant playing time and key catches. They were solid down the stretch (especially in the overtime win against Kentucky, where Rogers saved the day with a huge 2-point conversion catch), however, they both had a few key weaknesses which hampered their overall production. Both had some big drops at key moments, and both appeared to have some shortcomings at times when it came to field awareness. That said, both of these upperclassmen now have an additional year of experience under their belt, and will no longer have to live in the shadow of the amazing and talented Robert Meachem.

The "Other" Briscoe

That said, I really like what I saw from Gerald Jones in his limited playing time last season, and something in my gut tells me that this talented sophomore will secure -- at a minimum -- 50% of one of the remaining starting spots. Based upon what I understand Dave Clawson’s offensive model to be, it seems that Jones would make a perfect fit -- especially when it is time to go deep.

I am a huge fan of using the Tight End as an additional passing threat (something that I have a feeling we may see under Dave Clawson’s tricked-out-offense), and I hope that we end up using Jeff Cottam more in that role to complement and build upon the strengths of this year’s receivers -- thereby making the Vols less one-dimensional and tougher to defend against. Either way, it seems to me that -- despite losing a gamebreaker like Meachem -- the receivers will be much stronger as a unit this season on the whole, largely due to experience and having more than just one go-to receiver. I feel this is especially true considering that, with Jonathan Crompton under center, it is fair to assume that opposing defenses will now have to honor the possibility that No. 8 may come running at them "Straight Outta Crompton" as well as throw to one of the wide-outs.

2) Which game on the schedule do you, as a fan, need Tennessee to win for your own sanity and happiness? Why?

For me, it’s a matter of whether the question is "Which game Tennessee simply cannot lose?" or "Which game Tennessee most needs to win?" While those appear to be the same, they really are quite different.

In terms of not losing, the choices are obvious: UAB, Northern Illinois, Wyoming, Vanderbilt and Kentucky. With the exception of the game against the Kentucky Wildcats, lose any of these games, and it is probably a sign that Tennessee is in serious trouble for the rest of the season. The Kentucky game is more a matter of keeping Tennessee’s 22-game winning streak -- dating back to a 12-17 loss in 1985 -- against the Wildcats. Kentucky is a good team, as they proved last year, so that one is hardly assured. Of this group, I think the game Tennessee can least afford to lose would be the game against Northern Illinois -- if the Vols lose that one, well ... they suck (I just call ’em like I see ’em).

In terms of games Tennessee most needs to win, as my last post made clear -- by my mind Tennessee’s biggest rival has always been and will always be the Alabama Crimson Tide (yeah, call me old-school). Thus, that one always matters. The other candidates would be the Florida Gators, Auburn Tigers, and Georgia Bulldogs.

From my perspective, not having the benefit of yet seeing whether the Vols actually know what they are about or simply lay down and die when you look at them sideways, I think there’s a strong chance that Tennessee loses to Auburn regardless of what I hope for. Having lost 3-in-a-row versus the Tigers, I’d like to see this year's contest end in a win, but that might be a stretch.

As for Georgia, well, they look to be hell-on-wheels this year, but they have an absolutely brutal schedule -- a fair part of which occurs before the 11 October game in Knoxville. I think Tennessee will have to bring it versus the Bulldogs, but I think that one is winnable. That said, though I do not want to see the Vols drop one to the Dawgs, I wouldn’t curl up in a fetal ball and drool for days if we lost.

As for Florida and Alabama, that’s a tough one. Since these two represent the Vols’ biggest rivals in my eyes, losing either one of these would rank right up there with having a colonoscopy with a fire hose, I’d just as soon win them both. Losing to the Gators -- especially after last year’s 59-20 annihilation -- will unquestionably ruin my sunny and pleasant disposition. This is especially true since I’ll have had to listen to those god-awful Florida fans for 4 hours, which in itself is enough to cause a body to lose the will to live.

That said, since Tennessee is inching closer and closer to evening the all-time series versus Alabama (currently Tennessee is 38-44-7 all-time), and the fact that I think Bama is beatable this year, I would have to say that a loss to Alabama would be a much greater disappointment. Losing to the Tide would make it that much harder for the Vols to even things up versus the Bammers any time soon. Thus, predictably, it’s Bama by a nose.

3) What are your thoughts on the 8-win clause in Coach Fulmer’s new contract that automatically rolls his contract over another year if he wins 8 games in a season?

Well, I am a homer. I like coach Fulmer, and I always have. Until someone can show me a the coach that they think is going to do a better job, I am not inclined to try and replace Fulmer just because people are getting tired of his tenure as coach. That being said, an automatic renewal of the contract is a bit much in my book -- especially at the 8-win level. If the contract provided for an automatic extension at 11 wins, or maybe even 10, then I suppose it would make more sense to me. Of course, if you just had a 10 or 11-win season, it would be unusual for you not to get an extension automatically.

I can understand why Coach Fulmer would feel a bit threatened and uncomfortable -- especially after John Adams’ piece earlier this year calling for his head. Thus, he asked for some security, which Mike Hamilton provided. No revelations there.

My gut tells me, however, that there is a story behind the story here. I think it is reasonable for Fulmer to ask for some guarantees, I also think it is reasonable for Hamilton to ask for some in return -- which I bet he got, but only via a personal promise from Fulmer. My guess is that Fulmer probably gave Hamilton the 2 magic numbers -- the number of years and/or wins after which he plans to retire. Let’s be honest, Phillip Fulmer is not exactly a young buck, and I don’t see him trying to be the next Joe Paterno. My guess is he told Hamilton his exit strategy, and Hamilton agreed to that idea by giving Fulmer enough security to make that happen. If all of my speculation is accurate then I have less of a problem with the deal.

Again, purely speculating, I’m willing to bet that Fulmer has his eyes on General Neyland’s all-time wins record at Tennessee, and then maybe a year or two more, but not much more. I honestly think that Fulmer is growing weary of the dog-and-pony show which revolves around the football program and is generally expressed most vociferously by those who scream for his head if the hot dog they order at the stadium doesn’t have enough chili on it. I think the hiring of Dave Clawson plays into this. I strongly believe that Coach Clawson was hired not just as the Offensive Coordinator at Tennessee, but potentially as the next Head Coach at Tennessee. That hire has all the marks of Fulmer taking steps to name a successor.

From my perspective (which, in case you haven’t noticed, is worthless) and based upon what I’ve seen so far, I think that Clawson has the potential to be the next head coach, but who knows what will happen down the road. I can say that, of all of the staff coaches Fulmer has had during his tenure, Clawson is the only one that I could ever see as assuming the mantle as head coach at some point in the future.

There are a few ironic things about this deal though. Most notably, all of the whiners and complainers who have moaned and yelled to have Fulmer fired for the last 400 years, can thank themselves for this contract. Had they given Fulmer a little more credit (and thus a little more comfort when it comes to his job security) then I doubt Fulmer asks for this deal. More importantly, unless there is something that Fulmer can point to which makes his feelings of peril credible, I doubt that Mike Hamilton agrees to it.

Thus, all of you who have been caterwauling to have Fulmer fired can pat yourself on the back -- you just got him a sweetheart of a deal!

The other ironic thing is that, again all of the anti-Fulmerites (you do realize that they chased Moses and the Israelites through the desert and all ... oh yeah, it’s in the Book of Hank, Chapter 41) have been de-crying this new contract as a travesty -- the worst thing since the free substitution rule, akin to stealing babies in the night, sleeping with pigs, and worshipping a statue of Bear Bryant. The fact of the matter is, however, this contract actually makes it more likely that Fulmer actually could get the axe.

For the first time in his career at Tennessee, there is a benchmark in his contract. The contract simply speaks of an automatic-extension if he wins 8 games -- it is silent with regard to what happens if he does not. Failing to hit that mark -- as a practical matter -- would make it nearly impossible for Mike Hamilton to defend Fulmer, because in that situation Fulmer would have failed to meet the only quantifiable benchmark in his contract. While I realize that the extension does not call for him to go if he wins 7 or fewer, the reality is that his departure would likely be the result.

So, everybody lighten up a bit...

In the end, I am neither angry nor elated at the new contract -- mainly due to my speculative suspicions. It is not what I would have agreed to if I were Mike Hamilton, but it is not un-thinkable.

Of course, Mike Hamilton never really asked my opinion...

4) What is your favorite gameday recipe, whether for tailgating or in your own kitchen? Explain why in delicious detail.

My trip to any game in Knoxville consists of: 1) Driving from Eastern North Carolina to Asheville after work on Friday; 2) Driving from Asheville to Knoxville with my Father on gameday morning; 3) Returning to Asheville immediately after the game (which is late for those 8:00 p.m. kickoffs); and 4) Driving back across the State of North Carolina on Sunday. Considering I travel about 6 1/2 hours each way to come to the games, I don’t get to spend a lot of time tailgating and so forth. Thus, like Will at SESB, my gameday fare is somewhat less grand than that enjoyed by others.

Be that as it may, there is one recipe which jumps out to me as being particularly appropriate for stank-nasty football gamedays:

The Magna-rita:

I suppose most folks enjoy a good margarita every now and then -- especially when celebrating with friends. Mixing up a batch of the good stuff, however, takes time, effort, numerous bottles of mixers and tequila, cups, ice, salt, and a sombrero. The "Magna-rita" solves all these problems and is great for gamedays. Even better, it’s super-easy to make and -- most importantly -- dirt cheap. To make one of these beauties up, you simply:

Take one 40 oz bottle of of your favorite Malt Liquor -- the distinguishing whino gentleman generally prefers "Magnum," but feel free to use you own favorite brand, such as Colt .45 (just like Billy Dee Williams) or Schlitz Malt Liquor Bull. Actually, now that I think about it, you could use any kind of alcohol you can find: from a 1972 Dom Perignon to a 3-week old half-empty bottle of Ripple -- heck, if you got enough of those little alcohol wipes and squeezed them hard enough, you might even get enough sauce that way.

Next take one large bag of Skittles candy, and pour them out on a table, in a bowl, on the floor -- wherever, but make sure to save the bag.

Now pick out all the lime flavored Skittles and put them back in the bag, securing the bag tightly.

Jump up and down on the bag for about 3-4 minutes, or bash the hell out of the bag with a tire iron until the lime Skittles are broken into pieces.

Now pour the sort-o-lime flavored dust into your 40, and give it a swirl or two with a straw, a pocket knife, a coat hanger, stick, or whatever you can find.

Drink and enjoy.

Optional:

for a "Big Orange Magna-rita" substitute orange Skittles for lime

for those of you craving the salt around the edge of your Magna-rita, simply steal a few salt packets from McDonalds (or an actual salt shaker from McAlister's) and rub them around the mouth of the bottle after licking it a few times.

Most "Magna-rita" drinkers find that they enjoy this drink more if they drink 5-6 of these in rapid succession -- such as over a period of approximately 30 minutes or so.

5) You have a tag team championship match against the Legion of Doom coming up. Which current Volunteer do you choose as your tag team partner? Why?

Well, this one is a tough one. I’d have to say that -- if limited to the current members of the team -- I’d go with either Tennessee Center, Josh McNeil (6’4" / 280), or Defensive Tackle, Dan Williams (6’3" / 310), both of whom are some serious specimens when it comes to the smackdown. I’d take that action any day of the week.

If not limited to current players, then I’d take the Great Punkin himself -- who has been known to mix it up in the wrestling ring in the past -- against even the most dreaded Mark "the Man Beast" Mangino.

Phil Battling it Out!

Of course, I know absolutely nothing about wrestling (which is about the extent of my knowledge when it comes to football as well).

The Rest of the Roundtable:

Having wasted your time on my largely meaningless, juvenile, and insignificant thoughts for this week, go check out what the other roundtablers (who actually know what they are talking about) have to say (in no particular order):

If you really want to know...

The "Other" Lawvol

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